Tis The Season of Giving
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The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.
Christmas is such a fun time! One of the blessings of this time of year is it gives us a chance to connect, and sometimes, re-connect with our families, friends, and community. It is also the time of year that reminds us to celebrate giving and caring for others. In this issue we explore different and creative ways to give. There is the gift of yourself. At As You Wish you can create a unique and lasting piece of pottery. The Christmas season is simply not complete without the gift of homemade Christmas cookies (one of my personal favorites for those who are paying attention).
We are so fortunate to live in such a great community where local charities are alive and well and are always in the giving spirit. Although we have other charities to choose from, a great example of this is the local Kiwanis Club Car Show and Toy drive. We’ll take a look inside that event and shine a light on their local giving efforts. In the event you need a little help getting into the Christmas and gifting spirit then you need to check out The Cottage Flowers and Gifts for their festive home decorations, florals, and original gift ideas.
Christmas traditions are a favorite of ours as well. We have several, however, one of my beloved traditions is enjoying a Christmas dinner consisting of homemade tamales made right here in Queen Creek. Celebrate the season by being an example of the Christmas Spirit. Above all, the best gift is that of you, your cheer and your time. Be mindful of those less fortunate and to those that may be suffering in poor health. Volunteering for service at one of our local charities is always a meaningful way to give.
However you and your family celebrate Christmas, remember to pause, remind yourself & family of the special gift we’ve all received from the namesake of this holiday. Merry Christmas from our family to yours. BRAD
SCHNEPF, PUBLISHER
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Brad Schnepf | brad.schnepf@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Florence Daniels | florence.daniels@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Kaeden Peterson
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kimberly Heywood | shademarketingaz@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Breanna Vega
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The Pumpkin Chili Festival at Schnepf Farms. 2: Visitors to the Pumpkin Chili Festival as the sun goes down. 3: Train rides at Schnepf Farms. 4: Pumpkin season at Schnepf Farms. 5: Praise in the Park. 6: Booth at Praise in the Park event. 7: Booths at the Praise in the Park event.
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Military shaped my life. Having been married to a Marine before, during, and now after his time in service, I know FIRST-HAND the emotions that can be involved with any relocation. So many factors play into relocating and no two moves are alike. Having the honor of working for others during this time, along with my own personal experiences, gives me the unique ability to look for concerns and address them before they cause a problem. I love providing guidance and information that wasn’t always available during my own personal moves. Helping families through wherever life moves them has become a true passion of mine and I would love the opportunity to help you along your journey!
business monthly
Academy Bank Opens in Queen Creek
Academy Bank celebrated their grand opening. In attendance included the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce, local business owners, and Academy Bank staff. Academy Bank is family-owned by Dickinson Financial Corporation, a full service commercial bank. They offer a wide range of financial solutions for customers and businesses, including personal banking solutions, commercial and business banking, treasury management, and mortgage services.
Cindy Thompson Named Educator of the Year
Cindy Thompson was named 2024 Educator of the Year. Mrs. Thompson teaches at Schnepf Elementary, and has over 35 years of teaching experience. "She embodies the essence of courageous leadership, not only within her classroom, but across her school, district, and community. Beyond academics, Mrs. Thompson fosters a nurturing environment where students feel valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their full potential." wrote Jennifer Revolt in her nomination for Mrs. Thompson.
Rili-B's Taco Shop Celebrates One Year in Queen Creek
Rili-B's Taco Shop marked their one year anniversary with $1 specials from their menu and raffles of gift cards. They serve up authentic Mexican food across Arizona. Their menu includes tacos, breakfast burritos, quesadillas, and more made with fresh ingredients.
Photography by Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce
Photography by Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce
Photography by F. Daniels
Christmas Sugar Cookies
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS
A family recipe just for the holidays.
It’s time to set out that tray of milk and cookies for Santa, so why not treat him to something homemade. Here is another Ellsworth family recipe to add to your traditions.
ingredients:
• 3 1/4 cups of flour
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
• 1/2 cup sour cream
directions:
Step 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2. Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3. In a mixing bowl cream together the butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla for two minutes.
Step 4. Add sour cream and half of the dry ingredients, mix well.
Step 5. Stir in remaining ingredients with a wooden spoon.
Step 6. Divide the dough and roll to 1/4 inch thick cookies. Bake 8-10 minutes. Do not over bake, you shouldn’t see any browning on the cookies. Once cool, frost cookies as desired.
AS YOU WISH
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON
Nothing means more or is as unique than a gift made with your own two hands. That is why at As You Wish Painting and Pottery Place you have the chance to express your own artistic flair to truly personalize a gift this Christmas. For those who have yet to experience As You Wish, you begin with a plain ceramic piece of pottery of your choice. You may select from an entire wall filled with snowmen, mugs, plates, a nativity scene, or a nutcracker. There
are so many items, both seasonal and every day, to peruse that making a decision might be the hardest part of all.
The studio provides all of the tools you will need from paint brushes and sponges to paints and stencils. Your artistic talent is really up to you, so leave any worries on that score behind you and really soak up the fun instead. There is an idea book to provide inspiration and the stencils and stickers help you
A personal touch and some creativity go a long way this holiday season.
keep a steady hand. There are glitter paints, puffy paint, and specialty glazes to enhance and customize your piece.
Christmas is the perfect time to personalize an ornament or mug with a name, handprint, or a message. Plus, you have a lot of fun in the process. If you do have someone who loves a creative outlet, consider giving them a gift card to As You Wish as a great ‘experience’ gift. People of all ages and abilities walk through their doors and have enjoyed parties or just some fun family time.
As You Wish has a three day turn around and December 21st is the last day to complete a piece with pick ups as late as the 24th.
As You Wish Pottery Painting Place
Special Upcoming Events and Workshops
• December 1st -
Clay Hand Impression Ornaments Make a 15 minute appointment and capture your little one’s handprint in an ornament to hang on the tree.
• December 6th -
Merry and Bright Family Paint Night
A family night of painting, memories, with festive Christmas music, photo booth, holiday props, and mocktails.
• December 7th-8thClay Paw Impression Ornaments This time capture your pup’s paw impression in clay for a decorative ornament.
• December 13th -
Kid’s Paint Night ‘The Grinch Plate’ Each child will get an exclusive Grinch sticker that works as a stencil that they can color in and bring the Grinch to life.
To learn more visit www.asyouwishpottery.com
Brynley and her sister McKenzie hard at work.
Santa Clause is Coming to Town.
Get in the Christmas Spirit and bring a little cheer to those in need.
'Tis better to give than to receive': is a timeless expression found in the corners of some of our favorite holiday movies, songs, and books. From A Christmas Carol to Cindy Lou Who changed the Grinch’s cold heart, it’s a message that has been around American holiday lore since what feels like, from the beginning of time. It’s easy to get caught up in the restless, quick paced feel of the holidays. Here’s a reminder to activate your inner Santa Claus, so those in need are included in the spirit of giving. It’s important to keep things in perspective during this time. Some members of our own community do not have access to the things that you and I may enjoy during all times of the year, let alone at Christmas. This is your local give back guide, some suggestions from us to you, to spread some cheer and the true meaning of Christmas.
“'Tis better to give than to receive': is a timeless expression... Here’s a reminder to activate your inner Santa Claus, so those in need are included in the spirit of giving.”
ARTICLE BY BREANNA VEGA | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY KAEDEN
Aimee’s Animal Farm and Sanctuary
A non-profit organization aiming to provide rehabilitation and sanctuary for animals and differently abled persons.
Aimee’s is a beautiful 5-acre property in the heart of Queen Creek, housing over 60 livestock animals. They created the sanctuary for animals of all ability levels while giving them a life of love and joy. They provide rehabilitation, rehoming, and rescue services and are currently looking to expand their barn area for more livable space for the animals.
www.aimeesfarmanimal sanctuary.org
PETERSON
Santa: Richard Kurzhals: Kringle@bettercallclaus.com
Stylist: Christine Spletsoser
House of Refuge is a non-profit organization on the cusp of Queen Creek, in southeast Mesa, Arizona. The organization aims to provide transitional housing to those facing homelessness. There are over 80 two-bedroom homes that are distributed for low income housing, in which eligible residents (those who are facing housing crisis, low income, or domestic violence situations). They provide training in self-sufficiency for families with educational programming, employment and education services as well as a community garden and donation center on site.
www.houseofrefuge.org
Hope Mental Health Foundation is a nonprofit organization that makes therapeutic services accessible to all, especially those in need. They have a volunteer platform in which various programs can be supported through individuals in the Hope Team Circle. They are dependent on donations from organizations and individuals which help build the scholarship funds for those in need of mental health. They are awarded to individuals in the community and are provided with a database of Hope approved therapists to choose from.
Central Christian Church is a staple in the community of giving back in Queen Creek. With many resources to offer the men, women and children of Queen Creek, there are a variety of ways to give back and receive help when in need. Central provides a number of support groups free to the public including recovery, grief, and addiction, as well as financial aid towards more individualized help.
www.centralaz.com/
The Gift of Good Skin
Golgotha Apothecary feeds your skin what it has been craving.
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON
Sarena DeBaca was in the pharmaceutical industry for 15 years but found herself increasingly at odds with her career. ‘It’s so difficult to be passionate about something when your professional opinion does not align with your personal beliefs.’ After careful thought, and the support of her husband, Sarena made the decision to quit her job. Sarena felt a calling that she simply could not ignore. She says, ‘I felt this urgency in my heart to create an organic skincare line that would provide nourishing and healing properties while also giving glory to God, so I did just that.’
Owner, Sarena DeBaca
GOLGOTHA APOTHECARY
Resurrection - anti-aging face oil
David and Goliath - anti-inflammatory/acne prone oil
Lion's Den - beard oil
Tree of Life - face oil for even skin tone
Crucifixion Body Butter - deep moisturizing for sensitive skin
Holy Spirit Face and Body Balm - great for all skin conditions
Sarena’s skincare line called Golgotha Apothecary, is about providing truly clean and quality sourced ingredients for all skin types. Her products are free from any preservatives, synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes. She was inspired to pursue her business due to what she saw was a lack of transparency from other companies that claimed to be ‘clean’ or ‘natural’ while their ingredients list said otherwise. Sarena utilizes raw and unrefined ingredients in order to maximize their healing properties and nutrient content.
Golgotha Apothecary is also unique because they are composed largely of plant oils, which Sarena states provide a deeper nourishment compared to water-based products. ‘Oils provide concentrated nutrients without added preservatives, stabilizers, or other harmful chemicals. This means fewer ingredients which is always best.’ she says. Oils also penetrate the skin better to deliver their benefits where they are most needed.
Golgotha Apothecary is therefore a great gift idea this holiday season for just about everyone. There are a total of 10 products which include face oils, beard oil,
hair oil, body oil, body polishes and body butter. These natural oils contain ‘essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants’. The oil glides onto the skin without feeling greasy and is quickly absorbed so you can apply it without worrying about any mess.
Since launching her business in February 2024, she has already received incredible feedback from her customers. Many clients reported significant acne reduction after using the David and Goliath oil. Another woman wrote to share that her painful eczema, caused by a gluten allergy, had responded to her Crucifixion Body Butter after just 30 days where other treatments had failed.
Our skin is the largest organ of our body and Sarena says, ‘the average person absorbs over 100 chemicals from skin care products every day.’ These ‘unpronounceable’ ingredients can impact the body with lasting, long-term effects. So give the gift of healthy skin by choosing from any of the Golgotha Apothecary line this Christmas.
www.golgothaappothecary.com
Christmas in Bloom
The Cottage Flowers and Gifts will inspire your holiday shopping.
Susan Johnson fills a vintage inspired red container with branches of Douglas, Silver Fir, Cedar, and Juniper along with deep red roses, alstroemeria blooms, accented by pine cones and a plaid red and green ribbon. Susan is the owner of The Cottage Flowers and Gifts in Queen Creek, a unique shop to find custom floral arrangements for any occasion, as well as gifts and plants too.
Susan’s collection of flowers are stunning in their variety and artistry. Her floral arrangements are further set apart from your average supermarket bouquet in their longevity, design, and quality. Whether you want to create a beautiful centerpiece to brighten your holiday table or send a bouquet to someone you are missing this Christmas, Susan can design something around your taste or use her creative eye. They also deliver your order the same day across the East Valley.
For the Christmas season in particular, the shop is also filled with eye catching
gift ideas for the home or someone special. Walking inside is like a Christmas wonderland and is enough to inspire your shopping this holiday season. There are fun bags, jewelry, and t-shirts, as well as Swig Life mugs in a variety of prints and colors. Kitchenware items include everything from a festive spatula to collectibles from Nora Fleming’s line such as her stoneware with attachable mini accents.
No Christmas is complete without filling your home with classic scents of peppermint, gingerbread, or balsam. There is no shortage of choice here in the form of candles or Pura home diffusers. You can add to your Christmas decor too with snow globes, vintage touches, Christmas village displays, and ornaments of all kinds. Susan even stocks some floral Lego sets too. Finding something for everyone on your list, including yourself, will not be hard to do here.
www.thecottageflowersandgifts.com
Owner, Susan Johnson
Finding something for everyone on your list, including yourself, will not be hard to do...
SANDY BARLOW & NORM BALVIN
Members of The Kiwanis Club of Queen Creek
Toys for All
The Kiwanis Club makes sure everyone gets something under the tree.
ARTICLE BY FLORENCE DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAEDEN PETERSON
The Kiwanis Club of Queen Creek was first chartered in 1985 and has made it a focus to help children in need throughout the East Valley. Their signature event is their Kid’s Christmas Car Show and Toy Drive that they hold every year to make sure disadvantaged children still get a Christmas to remember. This year the event will be held on December 14th at Desert Mountain Park from 8am -2pm.
The Toy Drive is free to the public and all are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy. There will be food trucks, a live band, raffles, and awards are given to the entrants of the car show.In addition to distributing gifts during the holidays, Kiwanis holds many events including back to school shopping and even provide $15,000 in annual scholarships to local graduating seniors.
President, Norm Balvin, has been with the Kiwanis Club for the last four years and says they are always looking for more members. So while supporting the Toy Drive is a wonderful way to give back around the holidays, you may want to consider a chance to do more good all year long.
Website: https://k11392.site.kiwanis.org
Instagram: kiwanis_club_of_queen_creek
Facebook: Kiwanis Club of Queen Creek
Sandy Barlow, Norm Balvin, Margarita Reyes, Yuri Mendez, Liz Martinez, Rocio Adriana Anzo.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
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DECEMBER 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 1ST
Christmas at Schnepf Farm
Schnepf Farms | 5:00 PM
There is so much to do at Schnepf Farms this Christmas. Train rides, campfires, sleigh bell rides, obstacle course, and Santa Claus lane. Stroll through all things Christmas with your family for memories you will never forget. www.schnepfchristmas.com
DECEMBER 3RD
The Nutcracker
Combs Performing Arts Center | 5:00 PM
The Nutcracker presented by Spark Dance Academy will play December 3rd and 4th. Two performances will be held back to back on both nights, the first at 5pm and the second at 7pm. Enjoy a magical night of dance with the well loved music of Tchaikovsky. www.jocombs.org
DECEMBER 7TH
Queen Creek Hometown Christmas Parade
Town Center - 21802 S. Ellsworth, Queen Creek, AZ 85142 | 10:00 AM
The annual Christmas town parade will be held from 10am-12pm. This year’s theme is ‘A Storybook Christmas’. They will bring to life classic tales such as The Polar Express and Twas the Night Before Christmas. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy the parade. There will also be a tree lighting ceremony on December 6th from 6-8pm. www.queencreekaz.gov
WE BRING YOUR IDEAS TO LIFE
CONTINUED
DECEMBER 7TH
Olivepalooza Harvest Festival
Queen Creek Olive Mill | 11:00 AM Join the Olivepalooza Harvest Festival on December 7-8. It is a joyous celebration of the olive harvest and the milling of fresh extra virgin olive oil. Enjoy live music from local musicians, a wide array of vendors offering creative and delicious products, along with cooking demonstrations from Perry Rea. There are also tractor tours of the estate, www.queencreekolivemill.com
A holiday market supporting 50+ local businesses. This free event runs December 7th from 9am5pm and the 8th from 9am-3pm.
Come see a live nativity scene and petting zoo from 5pm-8:30pm. There will be live Christmas music, treats, hay ride and train rides for the kids.
